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Additional Questions and Answers.
What causes the pink and sometime dark gray stain on bathroom fixtures? • The pinkish film, and sometimes a dark gray color frequently noted in bathrooms on shower stalls, tubs, tile,
toilets, sinks, toothbrush holders, and on pets' water bowls is caused by the growth of the bacterium Serratia marcescens.
Serratia is commonly isolated form soil, water, plants, insects, and vertebrates (including man). The bacteria can be introduced
into the house through any of the above-mentioned sources. The bathroom provides a perfect environment (moist and warm) for
bacteria to thrive.
• The best solution to this problem is to continually clean and dry the involved surfaces to
keep them free from bacteria. Chlorine-based compounds appear to work best, but keep in mind that abrasive cleaners may scratch
fixtures making them more susceptible to bacterial growth. Chlorine bleach can be used periodically to disinfect the toilet
and help to eliminate the occurrence of the pink/dark residue. Keeping bathtubs and sinks wiped down using a solution that
contains chlorine will also help to minimize its occurrence.
• Serratia will not survive in chlorinated drinking
water.
Why do I sometimes notice sediment in my water? • Sediment can appear in your drinking water any time there is a sudden change in the velocity, volume, or direction
of water flowing through our mains. These conditions may occur following the opening of a fire hydrant or when we flush the
distribution system. Sediment is the result of an accumulation of minerals in the water mains.
• Each year we flush
several hundred miles of water mains to control the buildup of these materials; these materials pose no health risk. Water
with sediment should clear within several hours.
Why are the strainers in my faucets
clogged with white particles? • These white particles are very likely pieces
of the dip tube from your hot water heater. Several brands of hot water heaters manufactured in the 1980's were made using
a faulty dip tube that disintegrates over time. The dip tube carries the cold water from the top of the hot water heater to
the bottom, where the cold water is heated. Over time, the dip tube disintegrates and the white dip tube particles are carried
through the household pipes. If the particles are large enough they are caught in the strainers of the sink faucets or showerheads.
Since it is only a hot water concern, these particles will only be found in places where hot water travels, so the toilet
bowls and tanks, and automatic ice-makers will not contain these particles if indeed they are from the dip tube. If you are
experiencing a problem of this nature, call the manufacturer of your hot water heater for further information.
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